Source: ‘Chicharito’ set to join expansion USL side in Dallas

Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, Mexico’s all-time leading goal scorer, is set to join the newly formed USL Championship team Atletico Dallas, as confirmed by a source to ESPN Mexico.

Return to the Pitch

The 38-year-old striker will return to competitive football after last representing his boyhood club Chivas in November 2025. This marks a significant moment in Hernandez’s career as he becomes the first signing for Atletico Dallas, which will compete in the USL’s second division starting in 2027.

This move indicates that Hernandez is not considering retirement, despite comments made previously that suggested his time in Major League Soccer (MLS) with LA Galaxy in 2020 was the “beginning of retirement.” He has yet to officially retire from international play, although his last appearance for Mexico’s national team was in 2019.

Club Debut and Manager Announcement

Atletico Dallas announced earlier this year that former LaLiga and Ligue 1 player Peter Luccin would be the club’s first manager, further indicating a promising future for the franchise. Dallas will be the ninth team Hernandez has played for, following a notable career with clubs such as Manchester United and Real Madrid.

Hernandez will aim to revive his goal-scoring prowess in the USL Championship after a challenging last season with Chivas, where he managed to score only three goals in all competitions. He also made headlines recently for controversial comments, which led to a fine from the Mexican Football Federation.

Fabrizio Romano was the first to break the news of Hernandez’s signing on social media, igniting excitement among football fans.

FAQs

When will Atletico Dallas begin play?

Atletico Dallas will make its debut in the USL Championship in 2027.

Which prominent teams has Chicharito played for?

Chicharito has played for notable clubs including Manchester United and Real Madrid.